Pro Football Player helps students score in math and science

Baltimore Ravens Offensive Lineman and published mathematician, John Urschel, is teaming up with Texas Instruments to explore the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) behind sports, in a new series of activities designed to inspire the next generation of problem solvers and critical thinkers. STEM Behind Sports kicks off with “Field Goal for the Win!” a fun, free activity designed for the TI-84 Plus family of graphing calculators.

Baltimore Ravens Offensive Lineman and published mathematician, John Urschel, is teaming up with Texas Instruments to explore the STEM behind sports.

“Field Goal for the Win!” encourages students to explore the math and science behind a well-executed field goal to make the game-winning play. Students can build reasoning skills by visualizing the flight of a field goal, observing relationships of time, distance and elevation, and discussing why the kick was good or fell short.

Urschel, a 6-foot-3, 305-pound offensive lineman, is uniquely suited to help students make these calculations. He is getting his Ph.D. in mathematics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) when he’s not dominating the gridiron. Urschel is all the proof students need to see they can be good at athletics and academics.

“Math isn’t just about solving problems in the classroom, it’s an exercise in training to help students solve the problems we face in life,” said Urschel. “The connection between STEM and sports is a powerful one and understanding this connection will help students succeed on the field and off of it.”

STEM Behind Sports is sure to score with students, parents and teachers, helping them see how math and science can span from the classroom, to the football field and beyond. Other activities in the series will explore the STEM behind running, cycling and swimming.

“Texas Instruments is honored to partner with John Urschel, a brilliant mathematician and gifted athlete who can help us reach students in new ways,” said Peter Balyta, Ph.D., president of TI Education Technology. “He gives us the muscle to broaden the appeal of STEM subjects and equip young people with the critical thinking and problem solving skills they need for a changing world.”